CoinDesk found itself in a dispute after publishing an article about Justin Sun, Tron founder, purportedly eating a $6.2 million art piece. Sun's team approached Bullish, the media outlet's new owner, demanding the article's removal.
The Context of CoinDesk's Article
In late November, CoinDesk released an article titled "I Watched Justin Sun Eat the World's Most Expensive Banana. I Don't Get It," detailing the event involving Maurizio Cattelan's banana artwork and Sun's legal issues with the SEC.
Bullish and CoinDesk's Reaction
Sun's team was displeased with the tone of the article, prompting Bullish to demand its removal. CoinDesk's editorial staff opposed this decision, suggesting the piece be restored with an editor's note. Currently, the article is removed from CoinDesk but still available on Yahoo News.
Consequences and Comments
Bullish CEO Tom Farley, CoinDesk's editor-in-chief Kevin Reynolds, and a spokesperson for Justin Sun declined to comment. The incident raises questions about editorial independence following CoinDesk's acquisition by Bullish. Meanwhile, CoinDesk's editorial chair Matt Murray resigned.
The controversy over CoinDesk's article highlights issues of press freedom and editorial independence. The situation may have long-term effects on the reputations of those involved.
